The Department of Biochemistry is dedicated to excellence in biochemical research problems, with faculty members actively pursuing cutting-edge research problems in a variety of disciplines. Underlining our diversity, however, is a common theme: how living cells work. Our research programs utilize all of the modern experimental tools, including analysis of molecular structure, gene arrays, high throughput proteomics, and genetically modified organisms to answer basic questions about how biological molecules interact with one another to determine cellular functions. As an integral component of their individual research programs, faculty members offer one-on-one training to graduate students, allowing them to assume full partnership in research within a chosen area of biochemistry.